발이 넓다

bari neolda◆idiom
well-connected

그는 발이 넓어서 모르는 사람이 없다.

He's so well-connected that he knows everyone.

◆ What It Really Means
Having extensive social connections or influence.
Literal Meaning
One's feet are wide.
Literal Breakdown
발foot+이possessive particle+넓다to be wide
◇ Mental Image
Visualize someone whose reach extends far in social circles, like a footprint covering a large area.
◈ When to Use
At a social gathering, someone introduces you to multiple new people effortlessly. You might say, '와, 발이 정말 넓네!' (Wow, you’re so well-connected!).
◉ Cultural Note
Reflects the Korean value of interpersonal relationships (인맥) and the importance of social networks in personal and professional success.
informal

Having a wide social network; knowing many people across different circles.

그녀는 발이 넓어 파티에 가면 늘 아는 사람이 많다.

She’s so well-connected that at parties, she always knows a lot of people.

사업가로서 성공하려면 발이 넓은 것이 중요하다.

For a businessman, having a wide network is important for success.

Often used to describe someone who is socially influential or has many acquaintances.

Collocations

인맥이 넓다to have a wide network of acquaintances교우 관계가 넓다to have broad social relationships

Related Phrases

발이 닿는 데까지phrase
as far as one's reach/connection goes
발이 묶이다idiom
to be stuck in one place (lit. feet tied)

Pro Tip

Social Context

Use '발이 넓다' to compliment someone’s ability to navigate social circles easily. It’s often used in contexts like networking, business, or making new friends.

Gold Rule

Avoid Literal Interpretation

This is an idiom—never use it to describe someone’s physical foot size.

Usage Notes

Commonly used in casual conversation to praise someone’s social skills or network. Not to be confused with the literal meaning of having wide feet.

Word Breakdown

발
foot
noun
+
이
subject marker (possessive 's)
grammatical particle
+
넓다
to be wide/broad
adjective
한영사전